Not at all surprised with Nehra’s selection for T20Is – Virender Sehwag

5 Oct 2017

Former Indian opener Virender Sehwag was not surprised with the selection of Ashish Nehra in the T20I squad against Australia.

Speaking to India TV, the former skipper said, “I was not at all surprised with Nehra’s selection in the T20I team against Australia. I am very happy that he is a part of the team and I want him to play more matches in future.”

The World Cup winner’s inclusion in the squad surprised many, especially considering his age and that the next World T20 is three years away. But Sehwag was insistent that the 38-year-old veteran still has what it takes to compete at the highest level.

“The secret behind Nehra’s fitness is when is not playing international cricket, he spends almost 8 hours in the gym. And if today he is a part of the T20 team, it is because he has passed the ‘yo-yo’ test. He scored almost 17-18 in the yo-yo test, touching Virat Kohli’s score.”

“Nehra is a fast bowler and never faces any issues while running. So, he doesn’t endure much problems in clearing the “yo-yo” test. Nehra likes to stay fit and spend time in the gym. It is not that he is doing it forcefully. He likes to run, swim and I think he would have easily covered the distance of 20 meters in the yo-yo test. He has also an advantage of his height… he is over 6 feet and has a long stride.”

On being quizzed about Nehra’s chances to represent India at the next T20 world cup in 2020, Sehwag said: “I don’t think age should be the criteria to play in the world cup. If Nehra is fit, picking up wickets and giving away less runs, then why not? Sanath Jayasuriya played till 42, Sachin Tendulkar played till the age of 40 then why not Ashish Nehra?”